Lock and Key succeeds because of Ruby's prickly, defensive personality and the authentic tension she feels while moving from neglect to unexpected wealth. Readers connect with her struggle to trade survival instincts for genuine trust in others. Books in this family share realistic portrayals of guarded protagonists navigating major lifestyle shifts and complicated family dynamics.
Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with the 'I can do it all myself' mentality or has experienced a significant upheaval in their home life. It is a powerful story about Ruby, a high schooler who has been living alone since her mother disappeared, only to be uprooted and placed in the care of an estranged older sister she barely remembers. The book navigates the complex transition from survival mode to safety, exploring how difficult it is to accept help when you are used to being let down. While it deals with heavy themes like neglect and abandonment, it is ultimately a hopeful exploration of family reconciliation and the courage it takes to be vulnerable. It is most appropriate for readers aged 13 and up due to its mature emotional themes and realistic depiction of teen life.
